Waikato RiverCare has been in existence for 16 years, in which time they have fenced 20,300m of riverbank and planted 183,250 plants with another 58,000 planned for this August.

Chairman David Klee and operations manager Kevin Hutchinson were in Wellington to receive the award on behalf of the organisation.

“It’s fantastic that Waikato RiverCare has been recognised for its efforts over many years to protect and enhance the wellbeing of the river and its catchments,” says Mr Klee.

“None of these projects would have been possible without the ongoing dedication and support of current and previous committee members and their organisations.

“It also needs to be acknowledged that an organisation is only ever as good as its staff, and I really need to thank Kevin for his dedication to the role over the past four years.”

Mr Klee says that Waikato RiverCare is a great example of how a diverse group of organisations can work together in collaboration to achieve a common goal.

“I am particularly pleased for all out volunteers who dedicate so much of their own time over the years.”

Operations Manager Kevin Hutchinson was quick to acknowledge during his acceptance speech, the input of all the past and present members and the work they have into the organisation, plus the ongoing support of key sponsors and funders.

“I have only been operations manager for four years so can’t really take credit for all that has been achieved by Waikato RiverCare Inc. over the last 16 years,” he says.

“Waikato RiverCare is an excellent example of an organisation providing the frame work to draw corporate, government and community interests together to maximise limited resources and achieve tangible results on the ground.

“Waikato RiverCare is extremely grateful to the sponsors and funders that have stuck by the organisation over many years to ensure positive outcomes for the Waikato River and the communities that depend on it for food, business and recreation.”

Waikato RiverCare was not the only Waikato-based group at the ceremony, with Te Whangai Trust winning the community leadership category, and taking out the supreme winner title.

“We want to offer our congratulations to all the other nominees and winners, particularly our friends at Te Whangai trust. Their story is quite inspirational and we look forward to working with them this coming planting season,” says Mr Hutchinson.